Gluten-free products gain space in Brazil and should be cheaper

In Brazil, about 2 million people have celiac disease (gluten intolerance), however, the number may be even higher because the disease diagnosis is still difficult, according to Fenacelbra (National Federation of associations of Celiacs of Brazil). On the other hand, the gluten-free products market is growing very fast. Until 2020, the segment should grow 32% and, consequently, prices must fall.

"With more brands, competitiveness increases, consumption heats up and the price drops," said Gustavo Negrini, Director of Gluten Free Brazil, largest of the thread that happens on days 15 and 16 and July in São Paulo. The reduction in price is also related to new technologies and changes in the processing of gluten-free foods. "There are many cereals can be substitutes.

Sorghum and rice flour are two good examples. In Brazil, the sorghum is produced in the off season of soybeans to help in recovery of the soil '', "Negrini said. In practice, the difference in price between gluten-free products and the traditional is already diminishing. "In some places, during promotions, the price is no longer so far. A package of bread made with gluten-free flour costs $ 12, the promotion may fall to 7.90 R$. Two years ago, the price was $ 20. In addition, the industry is improving the products. Already have gluten-free muffins whose taste is equal to the traditional. In a blind test can''t tell the difference, "commented. The consumption of gluten-free products also grows at the expense of the interests of Brazilians for healthy foods. "We are not pioneers like the USA, but the brazilian industry is developing rapidly.

In the last five years, the number of brands of gluten-free products has doubled, "said Negrini. Disease various diseases are related to the consumption of gluten as: Celiac disease, gluten allergy and hypersensitivity. Celiac disease is characterized by inflammation of the mucosa of the small intestine and can cause chronic diarrhea, constipation, anemia, weight loss or obesity, growth delay, change of mood, bloating and abdominal pain, canker sores, depression, osteoporosis or osteopenia. There is also the possibility of a series of complications of celiac disease when left untreated, as the association with autoimmune diseases, such as herpertiforme Dermatitis, diabetes mellitus and thyroid diseases.

The only treatment for celiac disease is to follow a diet, for life without gluten-containing foods such as wheat, oats, rye, barley and malt or its derivatives, such as: wheat flour, bread, flour, pasta, crackers, cookies, cakes, some processed foods, among others. In Gluten Free, Brazil in July, will also be a display of functional products and a gastronomic fair.